Richardson Richardson Boudreaux understands the harsh impact that catastrophic injuries can have on anyone and their families. Based in Oklahoma, our team of Oklahoma City catastrophic injury lawyers provides legal support to those affected by severe injuries. We commit to helping our clients handle the legal challenges to secure the compensation they deserve in their personal injury claims.
Whether you are dealing with a personal injury claim or need the expertise of our catastrophic injury attorneys, we are here to help. Our skilled personal injury lawyers will guide you through the legal process.
Trust Richardson Richardson Boudreaux to advocate for your rights. We will achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
What are Catastrophic Injuries from our Oklahoma City Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
Catastrophic injuries are severe injuries that have long-term or permanent effects on a person's life. These injuries usually end in physical, emotional, and financial burdens. A catastrophic injury claim can impact a person's ability to work and affect their ability to keep a normal quality of life. Examples include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and severe burns.
The impact of a catastrophic injury goes beyond the individual to their families and loved ones. The cost of hospital treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care can be overwhelming. So, the emotional toll of adjusting to a new way of life can be immense.
An experienced catastrophic injury attorney from Richardson Richardson Boudreaux will strive to provide the support and resources needed to help our clients.
Types of Catastrophic Injuries in Oklahoma
Catastrophic injuries can happen in various situations and can have diverse consequences. Some of these consequences can be:
- Motor vehicle accidents: These accidents can end in traumatic brain or spinal injuries. The harshness of these injuries usually requires extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Victims could face great financial burdens due to medical bills and lost wages.
- Medical malpractice: Medical malpractice injuries include surgical errors, misdiagnoses, and medication mistakes. Hospital-related injuries can lead to long-term disability or even death. Holding healthcare providers accountable is essential to ensure justice and prevent future negligence.
- Workplace accidents: The workplace can lead to injuries in construction sites or industry facilities. Common injuries include amputations, severe burns, and crush injuries. Workers' compensation claims can help cover medical expenses and lost income. More legal actions may be required for full compensation.
- Premises liability: Property owners are responsible for keeping safe conditions on their premises. Failure to do so can result in catastrophic injuries like falls, electrocutions, and drowning. Victims of premises liability cases seek compensation for their injuries through legal action.
- Defective products: When products are poorly made or designed, they can cause serious injuries. These injuries can include severe burns, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations. Legal action against manufacturers can help hold them accountable for their negligence. Distributors could be held liable as well.
- Slip and fall injuries: Slip and fall accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries, especially for the elderly. Injuries from a fall could include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Property owners must ensure their premises are safe to prevent such accidents.
How Is Fault Determined in Oklahoma City Personal Injury Cases?
Determining fault in personal injury cases involves establishing negligence. It should prove the party at fault. Proving fault requires proving that the party owed a duty of care to the injury victim, breached that liability, and caused the injury.
According to Oklahoma's Chapter 23 statute, comparative negligence laws apply. The law means that the compensation awarded can decrease by the injured person's percentage of fault.
Our personal injury attorneys at Richardson Richardson Boudreaux are skilled at investigating and gathering evidence. We will help prove negligence and maximize your compensation.
Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries
Victims injured by catastrophic injuries have chances for compensation. Some of these forms of repayment are:
- Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and ongoing medical treatments. Catastrophic injuries often require long-term care, rehabilitation, and specialized equipment. Ensuring full coverage of these expenses is crucial for the victim's recovery and quality of life.
- Losses in the workplace: Catastrophic injuries can prevent individuals from returning to work. It may be temporary or permanent. Compensation can cover lost wages during the recovery period and account for the future loss of earning capacity. Reimbursements help to secure financial stability for the injured person and their family.
- Emotional distress: A type of non-economic damage that deals with emotions suffered. It considers the impact on the victim's quality of life, relationships, and mental health. These damages can be subjective and need careful documentation and legal argumentation.
- Disability: Permanent disability compensation accounts for the long-term impact on the victim's life. If the injury caused disfigurement, it applies as well. Compensation includes the loss of mobility, independence, and self-esteem. Such damages recognize the profound changes and challenges faced by the injured person.
- Home and vehicle modifications: When modifications are made to the victim's home or vehicle to accommodate their new needs, compensation can help cover these necessary adaptations to improve the victim's living conditions. Modifications can include installing ramps, widening doorways, and modifying bathrooms.
What are Punitive Damages in a Personal Injury Case?
Punitive damages may be awarded in personal injury cases. These damages penalize the defendant for unusually malicious behavior.
In Oklahoma, punitive damages are awarded if it is proven that the defendant was intentional in his actions. Compensatory damages cover the victim's losses, while punitive damages are meant to prevent similar conduct.
Payouts for Non-Economic Damages
The size of payouts for non-economic damages in catastrophic injury cases depends on many factors. These include the severity of the injury, the scope of the pain and distress, and the impact on the victim's life. Courts may consider testimonies professionals. These include medical experts, psychologists, and personal accounts from the victims or their families.
Our attorneys at Richardson Boudreaux strive to present a compelling case. We want to secure the largest compensation for non-economic damages.
Survival Action and Wrongful Death in Oklahoma
Survival actions allow the deceased's estate to pursue compensation for the pain by the victim before death.
The deceased's family members usually file wrongful death claims to recover damages for their loss. Not only do they have to endure a loss of companionship, but they also require financial support. Awareness of these distinctions is necessary. As attorneys, we will determine the appropriate legal action and ensure the proper compensation is sought.
Insurance Companies and Personal Injury Victims
Insurance companies often use tactics to lessen payouts to personal injury victims. They may offer quick settlements far below the claim's actual value. In the company's best interest, they hope victims will accept the offer out of desperation.
Adjusters might also downplay the severity of the injuries and try to dispute the necessity of certain medical treatments. Richardson Richardson Boudreaux advises clients to consult a lawyer before accepting settlement offers. We want to make sure your rights are protected.
Another common tactic is to delay the claims process, causing financial strain on the victim. Early settlements can pressure victims to accept a lower settlement to cover immediate expenses. Insurance companies may use statements made by the victim against them to argue that the injuries are not as severe as claimed.
How An Oklahoma City Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
A skilled personal injury attorney can give invaluable advice. They can help collect evidence, deal with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Besides negotiating for you, here are other advantages of hiring an attorney:
You Can Secure More Compensation
Hiring a lawyer increases your probability of securing a higher compensation amount. Attorneys assess the full value of your claim, including future medical bills and non-economic damages. They can also handle comparative negligence negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Our Lawyers Will Direct Your Case
Our attorneys will assess your case, from filing paperwork to negotiating settlements. A personalized strategy lets you focus on your recovery while we manage the legal details. We will inform you throughout the process and provide clear, honest advice. Trust us to direct your case with professionalism and dedication.
Physical Recovery
Focusing on your physical recovery is crucial after a catastrophic injury. By entrusting your legal case to our attorneys, you can concentrate on healing and rehabilitation. We will strive to ensure you receive the compensation needed for medical treatments and care. Our aim as a legal team is to support your recovery journey every step of the way.
No Need to Pay Upfront Legal Fees
Richardson Richardson Boudreaux operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay any legal fees upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, allowing you to seek justice without financial pressure.
A contingency fee approach ensures that our interests are aligned with yours. Letting you pay at the end of the lawsuit also motivates us to secure the best possible outcome. Let us handle the legal aspects as you recover and focus on your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating a catastrophic injury case can be complex, and you may have many questions. Here is a list of frequently asked questions:
What is the average amount for a personal injury settlement?
The average amount for a personal injury settlement can vary significantly based on several factors, including the nature and severity of the injury, liability, location, and individual circumstances of the case. However, some general insights can be provided:
- Minor Injuries: Settlements for minor injuries, such as minor cuts or bruises, may range from a few thousand dollars to $10,000.
- Moderate Injuries: More serious injuries that require medical treatment, such as broken bones or soft tissue injuries, might result in settlements ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.
- Severe Injuries: Cases involving severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or significant pain and suffering could result in settlements from $100,000 to several hundred thousand dollars.
- Catastrophic Injuries: For life-altering injuries, such as paralysis or traumatic brain injuries, settlements can range from several hundred thousand dollars to millions.
What legal options are available for individuals who have sustained catastrophic injuries?
Victims can pursue compensation through personal injury lawsuits or workers' compensation claims. If you hire an attorney, they will help you determine the best course of action.
What kind of damages can be pursued in a catastrophic injury case?
Damages include medical expenses, lost wages, psychological or emotional suffering, and more. In some cases, punitive damages may also be pursued.
What role does insurance coverage play in catastrophic injury claims?
Insurance coverage can provide initial compensation for medical bills and other expenses. Yet, insurance companies usually try to lessen payouts, making legal representation crucial.
What is the potential timeline for resolving a legal claim for catastrophic injury?
The deadline can vary depending on the severity of the case and the negotiations involved. Some cases settle quickly, while others may take months or years to resolve.
Reach Out to Richardson Richardson Boudreaux to Get Started on Your Catastrophic Injury Case
Our team of catastrophic injury lawyers is dedicated to assisting you in every step of your claim. As experienced Oklahoma city catastrophic injury lawyers", we understand the difficulties involved in these cases. We strive to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team of Oklahoma catastrophic injury lawyers is dedicated to providing personalized representation to clients who have suffered due to negligence.
Contact us to schedule a consultation with a catastrophic injury attorney to discuss your case. Let us guide you through the legal process and provide the support you need during this challenging time.
